The ruling parties and the main opposition, Nepali Congress, have agreed on a common position where they would articulate a bottom line in response to the demands raised by the agitating Madhes-based parties and blockade in the border.

A meeting was called by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli at his official residence in Baluwatar on Sunday to brainstorm on possible solutions to address the Tarai unrest.

In the meeting, NC insisted that the government expedite the amendment bills to the new constitution.  Prime Minister Oli, however, wanted to consult with Madhes-based parties before expediting the amendments.

“I am not against amendment to the constitution if the agitating parties agree with the proposal and give up protests,” Nepal Pariwar Dal Chairman Eknath Dhakal quoted the prime minister as saying. ‘We should now stand together to seek solution.”

NC Vice-president Ram Chandra Poudel said his party would support the government in resolving the political crisis.

 “We are for an early deal. That’s why we have bee calling for common understanding on all issues, including amendments to the constitution and obstruction at the border and reconstruction,” said Poudel.

A meeting of senior leaders from major political parties has been called on Monday morning to chalk out a common position on the Tarai demands.